Sicily: A Land of Tradition, History, and Myth
Tuesday, 9 December 2025
Sicily is a land like no other, where tradition, history, and myth come together in a beautiful mix. This can be seen in the Strait of Messina, where feluccas, special boats used for traditional swordfish fishing, sail between Scylla and Charybdis. This journey marks the beginning of an exploration into the most authentic aspects of the island, where culture is alive and thriving beyond just museums.
This vibrant culture is evident in the stone archives of the cities, which hold the stories of a thousand-year history. From the Necropolis of Pantalica, to the iconic Valley of the Temples, Sicily’s relevance in ancient times is undeniable. The Valley of the Temples not only serves as a legacy of Greek colonization, but also as evidence of the island’s political, religious, and commercial centrality in the Mediterranean. Throughout history, Sicily has been dominated by various civilizations, as seen on the Arab-Norman route in Palermo and its province, and through the Sicilian Baroque in the towns of Val di Noto, with their concave facades, wrought-iron balustrades, and grotesque masks.
However, history alone would not be as charming without a touch of legend. And Sicily has no shortage of legends to tell, such as the belief that Mount Etna erupts because it is the forge of the blacksmith god, Hephaestus, who resides in the main crater. Along the coast of Aci Trezza, the faraglioni are believed to be the boulders thrown by Polyphemus at Ulysses after being deceived by him. And on Lake Pergusa, near Enna, it is said that the daughter of Ceres, Proserpine, was abducted by Pluto and taken to the underworld. Her mother was able to see her again, but only for six months of the year, thus explaining the changing of the seasons.
A trip to the most authentic Sicily would also not be complete without exploring traditional handicrafts. Sicilian puppets, for example, are not only the result of centuries-old techniques passed down from master to pupil, but also serve as a theatrical device that still entertains today. The art of working with coral, particularly in the Trapani area, also has ancient roots. Over the years, coral sculptures and jewelry from this region have gained recognition and were even exported all over the world. The renowned ceramics of Caltagirone can also be found throughout the island, adorning stairways, churches, and palaces. And let’s not forget the religious festival carts, which showcase the colors, painting styles, carvings, and epic narratives that make up the essence of Sicilian identity. The effort and charm of these traditions expressed through the community is truly unmatched.
Religious festivals are a significant part of Sicily’s cultural calendar, with the Feast of St. Agatha in Catania (February 3-5) and the celebration of Santa Rosalia in Palermo (mid-July and September 3-4) being among the most heartfelt. In Messina, the Vara festival takes place on Ferragosto, with a massive procession machine being dragged by thousands of barefoot faithful.
Aside from religious festivals, Sicily also hosts a variety of other events that highlight its vibrant culture. The Ottobrata in Zafferana celebrates the flavors of Mount Etna, while the Cous Cous Fest in San Vito Lo Capo is a “festival of cultural integration” that celebrates diversity and dialogue in the Mediterranean. Other notable events include the Almond Blossom Festival in Agrigento, which welcomes folk groups from around the world, and the Acireale and Sciacca Carnivals, known for their elaborate floats.
For more information on Sicily and its rich culture, please contact:
Ms. Daniela Lo Cascio – Head of the Department of Tourism, Sport and Entertainment of the Region of Sicily
Phone number: +39 095 7470254
Email: daniela.locascio@regione.sicilia.it
Website: https://www.visitsicily.info/
